The Small Intestine: Structure, Function, And Movements Explained

The Small Intestine: Structure, Function, And Movements Explained

Question 1. Gall blader.
Answer:

• The bile secreted from liver is stored in gall bladder.
• The capacity of gall bladder is approx 50 ml.

Functions:

• Storage of bile.
• Concentration of bile
• Alteration of pH of bile.
• Secretion of mucin
• Maintains pressure in biliary system.

Question 2. Peristalsis.
Answer:

Definition:

• Persistalsis is a coordinated reaction in which a wave of contraction preceded by a wave of relaxation passes down a hollow viscus.

Function:

• The peristaltic waves propel the intestinal contents towards ileo-caecal valve.

Regulation:

• It is regulated by “myenteric reflex”.

Question 3. Movements of small intestine.
Answer:

1. Mixing movements:

• They are responsible for proper mixing of chyme with digestive juices they are.
• Segmentation contractions.
• Here chyme is segmented and mixed together with digestive juices.
• Pendular movement.
• Small protions of intestine sweep forward and backward like pendulum.

2. Propulsive movements:

• They are involved in pushing the chyme in the aboral direction of intestine.
• They are.
• Peristaltic movements.
• Peristaltic rush.

3. Peristalsis in fasting:

• It occurs in stomach and small intestine during the long periods of fasting.

4. Movements of villi:

• It includes elongation and shortening which help in emptying lymph from the central lacteal into the lymphatic system.